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Published on: August 11, 2012
Chlamydia trachomatis infections in men with Reiter's syndrome
Annals of Internal Medicine
|February 1, 1984
Summary
Chlamydia trachomatis infection can trigger Reiter's syndrome in susceptible men. An exaggerated immune response to this bacterium may contribute to the disease's development.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Reiter's syndrome, a form of reactive arthritis, is characterized by arthritis, urethritis, and conjunctivitis.
- The etiology of Reiter's syndrome is not fully understood, but infectious agents are suspected triggers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of Chlamydia trachomatis in the pathogenesis of Reiter's syndrome.
- To compare immune responses to Chlamydia trachomatis in patients with Reiter's syndrome versus other conditions.
Main Methods:
- Chlamydia trachomatis isolation from urethral swabs.
- Serological testing for Chlamydia trachomatis-specific antibodies (antibody titers).
- Assessment of cellular immune responses (lymphocyte transformation stimulation indices).
Main Results:
- Chlamydia trachomatis was isolated from 9 of 19 men with acute, nondiarrheal Reiter's syndrome.
- Chlamydia trachomatis-specific immune responses were significantly more frequent and robust in Reiter's syndrome patients compared to controls.
- Higher antibody titers and lymphocyte responses were observed in Chlamydia trachomatis-infected Reiter's syndrome patients than in those with uncomplicated nongonococcal urethritis.
Conclusions:
- Chlamydia trachomatis can act as a trigger for Reiter's syndrome in susceptible individuals.
- An exaggerated immune response to Chlamydia trachomatis infection is implicated in the pathogenesis of Reiter's syndrome.
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